The Miami Heat have re-signed free agency forward Haywood Highsmith to a two-year, $11 million contract, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
Wojnarowski further states that the deal has “no options” and is “fully guaranteed.”
The final three years of Highsmith’s NBA career were spent with the Heat. Every year since joining the Heat, Highsmith has progressively taken on more responsibility. The native of Maryland averaged 6.1 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game the previous campaign. In addition, he made 39.6% of his shots from outside the arc and 46.5% from the field. Last season, Highsmith started 26 games, which was a career-high. Highsmith was one of Miami’s key supporting players last season after showcasing his outstanding defensive ability.
Only a few days had passed after the Heat lost Caleb Martin to the Philadelphia 76ers before hearing of Highsmith’s resigning.
Important Free Agent Role Player Re-Signed by Miami Heat
Haywood Highsmith Attracted Interest from Several NBA Teams
It’s hardly surprising that Highsmith was a highly sought-after free agent following his career year. Michael Scotto of HoopsHype discussed the potential summertime makeup of Highsmith’s free agent market in May.
In addition, Damian Lillard of the Milwaukee Bucks made an effort to convince Highsmith to join the team, according to Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald. The Phoenix Suns extended a minimum contract offer to Highsmith, as Jackson also disclosed.
Miami was where Haywood Highsmith wanted to stay.
Highsmith made it plain that he did not want to leave the location he has called home since 2021 ahead of the 2024 NBA summer.
Reuniting appears to be the best course of action for both groups. Miami must maintain a group that is as deep and talented on defence as possible. Regarding Highsmith, it makes sense that he will remain on the squad following his breakthrough season. It will be intriguing to watch how the 27-year-old builds on his best-ever season.
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